High frequency audiometric study in cancer-cured patients treated with cisplatin

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Audiology
• Ototoxicology

Background:

• Chemotherapy drugs, particularly antineoplastics, are known for their ototoxic properties.
• Hearing loss is a recognized potential side effect in patients undergoing cancer treatment.
• Audiological assessment is crucial for identifying and managing hearing impairments in these patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate high-frequency audibility thresholds in pediatric and young adult cancer survivors treated with cisplatin.
• To investigate the association between cisplatin therapy and hearing loss as a potential adverse effect.
• To determine the extent of hearing loss at various frequencies post-treatment.

Main Methods:

• A clinical and experimental study involving ten volunteers aged 5-27 years.
• Assessment included clinical history, otoscopy, and conventional and high-frequency audiometry.
• Statistical analysis using kappa coefficient and Fisher's Exact Test.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in hearing thresholds were observed between ears across 50% of the 14 evaluated frequencies.
• Eight participants exhibited hearing loss, commencing at 1 kHz and worsening significantly at 6 kHz and higher.
• A significant association was found between cisplatin dosage and high-frequency hearing loss in the right ear.

Conclusions:

• The detected hearing loss is likely attributable, at least in part, to the ototoxicity of antineoplastic drugs.
• Hearing impairment may persist or manifest even after the cessation of chemotherapy.
• Establishment of a protocol for audiological follow-up for patients undergoing chemotherapy is recommended.